An early Sunday morning fire at the TA Travel Center in Richmond Hill has forced the closure of three businesses.

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen,  located in the TA Travel Center, was heavily damaged by fire and the adjoining Fuddruckers and TA convenience store sustained smoke damage.  The travel center is located in the 4400 block of Highway 17.

According to Richmond Hill Fire Department Capt. Roland Evans, when firefighters arrived they encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from the roof of the Popeyes restaurant.

Evans said firefighters were able to knock down the flames quickly however mutual aid was requested from Chatham county, Liberty County Fire Services due to multiple layers of the roof where the fire was believed to have started and contained.

Evans said the Popeyes restaurant sustained fire and water damage, while the adjoining  businesses sustained smoke damage.  It’s expected Popeyes will be closed while repairs are made, an evaluation of Fuddruckers and the TA convenience store will have to be made when they can reopen.

Richmond Hill Fire Chief Brendon Greene said a woman was treated for smoke inhalation was treated on scene.  Greene was unable to provide the woman’s relationship to the businesses.

A city of Richmond Hill fire marshal was on scene to determine the cause of the fire, which has not been determined as of press time.  The fire was reported shortly before 3 a.m.

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